How to Set Up a Tent
How to set up a tent step by step: pick a site, lay the footprint, attach poles, stake corners, add the rainfly…
Outdoor Guides
Beginner-friendly camping and hiking guides that cover preparation, safety, skills and checklists. Start here if you are planning your first campsite night or day hike, or want to get more confident on the trail.
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Wildlife Safety on the Trail
Wildlife safety on the trail: safe viewing distances, food storage and what to do if you meet a bear, mountain lion, moose…
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How to Read a Trail Map
Learn how to read a trail map step by step: use the legend and scale, find north, read contour lines, follow junctions…
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How to Navigate With a Phone App on the Trail
How to navigate with a phone app on the trail: download offline maps, follow a route, read your position, save battery and…
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How to Hike Responsibly on Busy Trails
How to hike responsibly on busy trails: right of way, polite passing, staying on the path, group size, noise, trash and protecting…
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How to Leave a Hiking Plan With Someone
How to leave a hiking plan with someone: what to include, who to tell, how to set a call-for-help time, what your…
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Lightning Safety for Hikers and Campers
Lightning safety for hikers and campers: plan around storms, spot warning signs, know what to do when you hear thunder, find safer…
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How to Choose a Campsite
Learn how to choose a campsite: pick the right campground, then find a flat, well drained, sheltered tent spot that is safe…
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How to Plan a Day Hike
How to plan a day hike step by step: choose a trail, check conditions, estimate your time, set a turnaround, pack the…
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How to Choose a Hiking Trail for Your Level
How to choose a hiking trail for your level: compare distance, elevation gain, terrain and time, read difficulty ratings and build up…